#online public school PA

[palcs]

Online Schooling K-12 PA | Virtual Charter Schools PA | PALCS

Online schooling for K-12 delivers a full curriculum through virtual platforms, allowing students to learn from anywhere with internet access. The Pennsylvania Leadership Charter School offers comprehensive online schooling K-12, providing flexible, high-quality education tailored to individual learning needs. With engaging virtual classes and a curriculum aligned to state standards, we enable students to excel academically from home. Enroll today to experience personalized online learning that prepares students for a successful future.

[justinspoliticalcorner]

Ryan W. Briggs, Max Marin, and Ellie Rushing at Philadelphia Inquirer:

BETHEL PARK, Pa. — In the sea of caps and gowns, Thomas Matthew Crooks hardly stood out. Few people clapped when his name was called. A YouTube video of his graduation two years ago from Bethel Park High School shows a slender and bespectacled student receiving his diploma with a soft smile. But the class of 2022 awoke Sunday to learn that the 20-year-old Allegheny County man was notorious, the shooter in the assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump during a rally that left an ex-firefighter, Corey Comperatore, dead and two other attendees wounded. U.S. Secret Service counter-snipers killed Crooks moments after he opened fire on the Saturday night rally from a nearby rooftop. The FBI said Sunday they believed he acted alone. He had not been on the bureau’s radar.

Crooks’ actions shocked residents in his hometown, sparked countless conspiracy theories online, and prompted investigators to begin combing through every aspect of his life, looking for motive. The mystery has been fueled by a near-total absence of Crooks’ social media postings, political writings, or other digital fingerprints. Several former classmates appeared on national television Sunday, quickly casting Crooks as a stereotypical loner who was bullied heavily during his time at Bethel Park. One of them, Jason Kohler, told reporters Sunday that students tormented Crooks “almost every day” and that he often wore “hunting” outfits to class. “He was just an outcast,” Kohler said, “and you know how kids are nowadays.” Yet, two former students interviewed by The Inquirer disputed the characterization. They did not recall specific incidents of violence or other antagonism involving their now-infamous classmate in the community they described as generally tight-knit.

[...] The slight traces of public information Crooks left behind leave few clues about his political ideology. Federal campaign finance records show he made a $15 donation to progressive political action committee in 2021 after President Joe Biden’s election, but later registered as a Republican, according to Pennsylvania voter data. His father was a registered Libertarian, his mother a Democrat. Crooks’ body was found on the rooftop of an agricultural tool manufacturing plant a few hundred feet from the rally with an AR-style semiautomatic rifle — legally purchased by his father. The shooter was wearing a T-shirt promoting “The Demolition Ranch,” a YouTube channel for gun enthusiasts. If Crooks maintained any personal social media presence, it went largely undetected on Sunday. Discord, an instant messaging platform mainly used by video gamers, released a statement acknowledging Crooks held a “rarely utilized” account that contained no information relevant to the shooting.

Sigafoos did not recall Crooks making political overtures in class, but rather as someone interested in how government works, and “not trying to insert his own beliefs into it.” Another former classmate did not share this view. Max R. Smith recalled taking an American history course with Crooks as a sophomore. He did recall Crooks making political statements — but they shed no light on his actions Saturday. “He definitely was conservative,” he said. “It makes me wonder why he would carry out an assassination attempt on the conservative candidate.” Smith recalled a mock debate in which their history professor posed government policy questions and asked students to stand on one side of the classroom or the other to signal their support or opposition for a given proposal. “The majority of the class were on the liberal side, but Tom, no matter what, always stood his ground on the conservative side,” Smith said. “That’s still the picture I have of him. Just standing alone on one side while the rest of the class was on the other.”

The gunman who killed rallygoer Corey Comperatore and attempted the assassination of Donald Trump at Saturday night’s Butler, PA rally was not only a registered Republican but also a vehement conservative.

This should hopefully put an end to the right-wing’s nonsensical claim that a “violent leftist”/”Antifa” tried to kill Trump.

[chickenstrangers]

What really struck me about this final BBxATOTS episode, and in line with the other crossover episodes, was the importance of queer stories, and more specifically, queer community through stories. I keep coming back to the plays conceit in both Bad Buddy and Our Skyy 2 because this is how it best explores the interplay between texts and awareness of itself as a story.

I love that A Tale of a Thousand Stars is the play that Pran chose, outside of it being used to fuel the crossover. Pran found Tian's diary online somehow, maybe looking for other stories of people like him, and it spoke to him. It resonated enough with him that he wanted to put in the extra work to adapt it, and make the trek out to the mountains. Tian is able to tell his story in his own words in a more public way than Pran maybe can, and through that story they connected with each other.

Being able to tell their own stories is so impactful. Tian got to write down and share how he sees his relationship and his journey. Pran explicitly seeks and obtains Phupha's permission, and Phupha even sets the terms upon which he is comfortable with the play, determining who he trusts with their story. It also shows growth that Phupha let them portray his story like that, showing him as a romantic lead, and while there is of course a lot more to his character than his relationship, it shows he's less hesitant about sharing this side of himself more openly.

We got to see Phupha and Tian's reactions to the play highlighted, seeing that they appreciated the portrayal. We also saw Ink and Pa's reactions, how moved they were by the play and Pat and Pran being able to portray it; how the story was received by other queer people. These special episodes are exploring the tension between needing to hide and wanting to be seen and open, and in the play, both Phupha and Tian, and Pat and Pran got to open a little bit about themselves to others. Even though it is Tian and Phupha's story on stage, Pat and Pran are telling their own as well.

The play is an adaptation, and like all adaptations, it revises the original. Pat and Pran are all about revising stories, and sometimes completely rewriting them and throwing away the originals. But unlike with Romeo and Juliet/Kwan and Riam, they don't change the story, though it is nuanced by their performance and the context of it (lines about not sacrificing yourself to repay for someone else's life taking on new nuances when spoken to Pat as Tian as @grapejuicegay brilliantly pointed out; mirroring Phu and Tian's hug before the kiss but at first only intending it to end with the hug because they're not supposed to be publicly affectionate). But they're performing a romance, not a tragedy this time, and they are taking on ATOTS' happy ending for themselves as well.

There's a lot of agency in this act of adaptation, outside of the play itself, in a way that there explicitly wasn't with the first school play in Bad Buddy. This performance parallels so clearly the forced outing in episode 8. The curtain closes on a kiss, and Pat and Pran are aware of their audience during it, instead of the curtain falling open violently on a private moment of affection. Instead of the shocked stares from their peers, the loathing in Wai's eyes, and the subsequent shunning from their friends, Pat and Pran's kiss is met by their community with love and encouragement. Pat and Pran are hesitant to kiss at first, but it is because of the support of their friends that they push past the barriers between the characters and themselves. Ink, Pa, Wai, Korn, Phupha, and Tian are there to witness their public affection, and support them. Rather than rewriting the ending of Romeo and Juliet/Kwan and Riam, this time the show is rewriting part of Pat and Pran's own story, in a way that feels healing.

It's unclear how much Phupha and Tian knew about Pat and Pran's situation with regards to their parents, but in any case, with his one condition, Phupha has given them an opportunity to be somewhat open about their relationship more safely. They get to work together openly to put on the play, similar to how building the bus shelter and Kwan & Riam gave them an excuse to spend time together. They get to be affectionate in public for the first time maybe since they ran away to the beach. Pran's mom sees the video of the play, but doesn't react too negatively because they have the excuse of just playing their characters. But even there we see a softening, because the last time she saw them working on a concert together, she tore them apart. Here it's possible to see her taking small steps towards quietly accepting their relationship.

A lot of Pat and Pran's relationship is about performing. They pretend to be enemies for most of the original show, first to hide their feelings, and then playacting fights and animosity in front of their friends and parents. They even fake a fight to stop Tian and Phupha's argument. But here they get to perform as lovers, as people in a relationship, as something a bit closer to the truth. But its also important that they had a moment as themselves, "Now that we're behind the curtain can we kiss as Pat and Pran?" There's a healthy separation between the performance and their authentic selves.

We saw this episode as both couples were able to be more open about their relationships, in part aided by each other. Pat and Pran helped Phupha get out of his head, modelling a level of affection he wasn't very comfortable with before due to a lot of internalized homophobia as well as other tensions (@wen-kexing-apologist explores this so beautifully). And Phupha and Tian gave Pat and Pran to show a bit of themselves by acting out the play. And most of all, they were able to be more affectionate with their partners due to the sense of comfort their newfound friendship fostered, and building queer community. (And I'm thinking a lot about the ideas of community that Aof often explores, as @waitmyturtles discusses so wonderfully (x, x)). The whole special is brought together by the sharing of stories, by portraying others thoughtfully, by connecting over common experiences.

It's not a perfect happy ending. This episode reminded us of how Pat and Pran are still not as open as they want to be, and won't be able to be for years to come. Having that small moment on stage is bittersweet in the grand scheme of things, but it allowed them to reflect a part of their story in front of others, while also telling Tian and Phupha's love story. But there's still happiness there, and community that they've built with Pa, Ink, Wai, Korn, and now Tian and Phupha. I hope they'll get to visit the mountains again, like they return to the beach, and get those little spots of refuge in their lives. And it's nice to know that we're still just in the middle of Pat and Pran's story.

[beardedmrbean]

Iwas born in Gaza Strip in the late 1990s, one of six children. At the time, the Palestinian Authority was the ruling party. My father, like most people in Gaza, was sick of the PA's corruption and was waiting for any alternative. Hamas promised "change and reform" and they won the Palestinian Legislative Council elections in 2006. One year later, I awoke to the sound of gunfire. Hamas gunmen were fighting Fatah, and they ended up killing of more than 600 Palestinians. It became clear very quickly that Hamas was not the "change and reform" that we hoped for.

To silence dissent, Hamas terrorized the citizens of Gaza. On the way to the Dar-Alarqam school I attended in the al-Shujaiya neighborhood near the Israeli border, a group of masked men carrying Kalashnikovs would check each car. At the end of the year, masked men opened offices in our school to promote Hamas's military camps and register students.

I graduated and began my studies at the Islamic University of Gaza, along with future Hamas leaders and current members. All art classes were replaced with radical Islamic teachings, and the elections of the student councils and clubs were only open to Hamas members, who hoarded all the privileges and distributed all the grants between themselves.

Voicing dissent was not an option. Hamas has a no tolerance policy for criticism or objections to any of its policies. Even discussion is forbidden Any journalist who objects or criticizes a policy is suspended and investigated. Demonstrations are strictly prohibited. Freedom of speech in Gaza is a fantasy. The dirtiest tool Hamas uses to silence citizens is character assassination through online campaigns accusing dissenters of working for hostile bodies or committing immoral acts. Hamas also routinely breaks into the homes of people deemed disloyal and humiliates them in front of their family and neighbors.

I observed all this with growing horror as a student. And as Hamas's oppression of the Palestinian citizens of Gaza increased, the quality of life deteriorated. Hamas's aggression toward Israel resulted in fewer and fewer job permits and limits on the electricity in Gaza, which we only got for eight hours a day. The economy cratered. Social and economic conditions collapsed.

A huge social gap opened between the wealthy elite who belong to Hamas and the rest of the population who were increasingly living in driving poverty. Public sector jobs were limited to Hamas members, and taxes were increasing on necessities day by day, even as the cost of living skyrocketed.

Many of us could no longer bear it. I was one of them.

Though we knew dissenters were subject to imprisonment, torture, and even murder, in 2019, a few of us decided to join forces and form a protest to voice our opposition to Hamas. We called it the "We Want to Live" demonstration. Our demonstration elicited an extreme reaction by Hamas. They violently cracked down on the protests and we were all arrested.

I will never forget my first day in jail—walking up the steps listening to screams of my colleagues, most of them fellow students, who had been arrested before me. I was held under arrest for 21 days and subjected to various types of torture. I was beaten with batons and sprayed with cold water in the late winter night hours. My friends didn't fare much better. A Christian friend was in the next cell and I could hear them screaming at him, "You are a Christian and you don't like the situation? Then go to another country!"

After we were released, most of those who participated in the demonstrations emigrated away from Gaza. There was no hope for any change in the current situation. We suffered ongoing harassment by Hamas members. Some died trying to leave, like Tamer Al-Sultan, a pharmacist whose crime was asking for a reconciliation between Hamas and Fatah.

People's living conditions got worse. The wealth gap expanded even further. We protested again in 2023 and were crushed in the same manner as in 2019. I was arrested again by Hamas last year and held for 14 days, this time in a small cell with no bed, no window, and barely enough space to sit down. I was released on bail on the condition that I not take part in any further demonstrations.

I still expressed my opinion occasionally on social media, but the arrest warrants after each post and the continuous threats from Hamas members and accusations of treason made me lose hope that I could make any kind of change. I left Gaza in August to seek a better future for myself and my family.

All this time, Hamas was planning to expand its extremism and intimidation. They knew what would happen as a result of their massacre on October 7, when they attacked Israeli civilians, and Israel responded with a massive war aimed at destroying Hamas, which has obliterated large parts of the Gaza Strip.

Now all the inhabitants of the city are being punished for Hamas' actions.

I think it's hard for Israelis to understand that there are many innocent people in Gaza who have suffered as much from Hamas's evil as they have. I understand those Israelis. During my life as a Gazan, the only thing I believed about Israelis was that they all hate us and want to eliminate us as a Palestinians.

Now I know better. After criticizing Hamas for its horrific actions on Oct. 7, I made friends with Israelis for the first time in my life. It turns out that many of them, like me, just want this conflict to end so they can live in peace. These friendships opened my eyes to their suffering. I now have a better understanding what they are thinking, and have decided never to make judgments before listening to the other side.

I hope my new friends feel the same way about the many Gazans living under the boot of Hamas's oppression.

We Palestinians have a saying: "Hope is born from the womb of suffering." I hope that after the war, that after Hamas been defeated, we can create a real, lasting peace for both the Palestinians and the Israelis. Many Gazans are praying for this, too.

Hamza Howidy is a Palestinian from Gaza City. He is an accountant and a peace advocate.

The views expressed in this article are the writer's own.

[eretzyisrael]

by Meghan Blonder

The head of the New York City public school system testified to Congress that he recognizes the "urgency of addressing" and "rooting out" anti-Semitism. Just weeks prior, he held an event alongside an anti-Semitic Democratic fundraiser who has promoted Holocaust denial and runs a pro-Hamas Facebook group.

Chancellor David Banks testified before the House Education and Workforce Committee on Wednesday to address the New York City public school system's response to rising anti-Semitism. He told the committee that his schools are "focused" on being a "candle in the darkness" in the fight against Jew hatred.

"At New York City Public Schools, we are focused on our charge to fight hate and foster inclusion through safety, engagement, and education," Banks said. "We’re working hard and we have a long way to go. There’s always more to do. I hope in New York we can be a candle in the darkness."

Less than a month before, on April 11, Banks and New York elected officials held an Arab American Heritage celebration which featured anti-Semitic Democratic fundraiser Maher Abdel-qader, who has promoted Holocaust denial and online content that describes Jews as "Satanic." Banks posed for a photo with Abdel-qader, who also is the founder and administrator of a Facebook group called "Palestinian American Congress" where members have posted anti-Semitic content and cheered Hamas terrorists.

In 2018, Abdel-qader shared a video that said Ashkenazi Jews are "not true Jews," accused Israeli Jews of "identity theft," and cast doubt on the validity of the Holocaust. "The Jews in Israel are not true Jews, they are Khazars Ashkenazi Jews, identity theft," the video said alongside a photo of a Jewish man wearing a ski mask to cover his face. "Research the truth about the Holocaust, and you’ll definitely start to question what you thought you knew," the video’s narrator says. In another post, Abdel-qader compared Israel to ISIS and accused the Jewish state of running "concentration camps."

In a 2017 post that echoed an anti-Semitic trope of Jews controlling the government, Abdel-qader claimed Sen. Ben Cardin (D., Md.) was a "foreign agent."

"Our US Congress is full of ass-kissing Israeli defenders. A few of them are actually unregistered foreign agents. Ben Cardin is one of them. He is convincing the rest of the lowlifes in Congress to throw away our rights to free speech, and kowtow to the illegal so-called 'state' of 'Israel,'" Abdel-qader said.

In the days after Hamas's Oct. 7 attack on Israel, members of Abdel-qader's Facebook group cheered the terrorist group's fighters.

An Oct. 12, 2024, post in Abdel-qader’s Facebook group read, "We don't want to throw you in the sea ... we want you to ride it back from where you came," accompanied by a photo of a Hamas terrorist with an elderly Israeli hostage. Another post commended the "achievements" of "resistance" fighters after they killed Israeli soldiers.

NYC Public Schools posted a photo online of Banks speaking at the event, with the caption: "Today we hosted our inaugural Arab American Heritage Month celebration!"

The revelation comes as other Democratic members of Congress also embraced Abdel-qader around the same time. "Squad" members Jamaal Bowman (D., N.Y.), Cori Bush (D., Mo.), Summer Lee (D., Pa.), Ilhan Omar (D., Minn.), and Rashida Tlaib (D., Mich.)—many of whom face a pro-Israel primary challenger—embraced Abdel-qader at an April 18 Washington, D.C., event.

Abdel-qader served as Tlaib’s finance committee chair during her first congressional bid in 2018 and has donated thousands of dollars to her campaign. Tlaib repeatedly thanked him for his help multiple times during her 2018 campaign. In November, he advertised a fundraiser for Lee and Tlaib, saying the "Squad" members "wholeheartedly" support the "just cause for Palestine."

In one photo from the event, Abdel-qader stands front and center displaying a special document, flanked by Banks and other leaders.

The celebration included a "showcase" of Arabic cuisine, music, handmade artistry, and cultural exhibits. The event also "honored" Abdel-qader and a Palestinian New York City police officer who spoke about the importance of the "Palestinian cause" for their "coordination and contributions to making the event both unique and enlightening," Arab America reported. Banks "commended their hard work and leadership,"according to the report. Abdel-qader was listed as a contributor to the article.

A New York City Department of Education spokesman distanced Banks from Abdel-qader.

"At our Arab American Heritage event we had only two honorary speakers: NYPD captain Filastine Srour and New York state assemblyman Nader Sayegh. We did not invite this individual to our event, nor was he honored, and the chancellor neither knows this man nor endorses his views," the spokesman told the Washington Free Beacon. Abdel-qader did not return a request for comment.

Banks during his testimony indicated that both Jewish and Muslim students have experienced hardship since the Oct. 7 attack by Hamas, and the school system is working to accommodate both groups.

"Our classrooms are not insulated from the global stage. Since October 7, our students and staff—Jewish and Muslim, Israeli and Palestinian—have suffered immensely," Banks said.

[tincansamurai]

pifo oc monday :)

original post here!

1. Is there someone [x] tries to protect?

mat: he generally feels really really weird trying to fill that niche, like he would be imposing himself on the other person. he would like stand up for amy or thom if something crazy happened but he's not the type to be generally protective. the longer he's with kaz the more actively protective he gets over him though, to point where he's gotta sort that out from the negative other half of the coin of feeling possessive/jealous.

kaz: kaz is kind of generally protective, like in the sense if someone does anything fucked up to a stranger or whatever, he'll totally say something. dude won't leave a woman alone on the train? he's telling him to fuck off, kinda thing. that goes double for people he likes and triple for people that are actually his friends. but he tries not to presume what people need/want, except in cases where he can conclude that the best thing for them would be for him to fuck off and die

2. What virtues does [x] value?

mat: honesty, sincerity. he hates guessing. he's always asking clarifying questions. just tell him

kaz: kindness. this extends pretty deep into his politics too.

3. Is [x] a good liar?

mat: y'know, he's not bad. he's great at lies of omission and half-truths. he is not good at straight up making up a lie whole cloth though. he will get red about it

kaz: depends who you ask. kimmy would tell you he's fucking awful at it, but most strangers and acquaintances would have no clue. he doesn't usually lie though, he doesn't like it. which is part of why he's always gotten in trouble for cheating and fucking around - he'd lie for a bit, then be like "fuck it, this is annoying" and let it get out for real. the only thing he wants to lie about is how fucked in the head he is, but it's the thing he is worst at lying about bc everything else about how he acts and lives his life gives it away

4. How does [x] get their hair cut or styled? A professional? A friend? Do it themselves?

mat: he definitely just goes to like a supercuts style quick chain

kaz: himself for maintaining the short parts, kimmy for the longer shit, himself for "i'm going insane i need to change something significant NOW" haircuts

5. Where did [x] go to school as a child? Or if fixed schools are not the norm in their culture, how did they receive their childhood education?

mat: public school in an nj suburb. he never moved or anything. his parents picked the best school district before getting pregnant on purpose, why would they move

kaz: public schools in pa suburbs. he moved once after elementary school when his mom found work in the city and they needed to be closer. she didn't want him going to school in the city though so they stayed outside it

6. Does [x] enjoy reading? Do they read quickly?

mat: mat loves old sci-fi. he's a fast reader. you can try and get him to read new stuff, or other genres, and he'll do it for a friend, but he doesn't care that much. very much a book re-reader

kaz: yeah, he misses having time for it, and outside pressure to force him into it. he reads at a pretty normal pace, but slower if it's nonfiction bc he likes to mark those books and take notes. he likes reading political and academic shit. he wants to be a philosophy guy but he can't concentrate on that well enough. he likes literature too. not big on genre fiction

7. Does [x] have a lot of friends, or just a select few?

mat: mat has two (2) friends. he kinda has some online friends but he doesn't keep up with them consistently or plan to ever meet them irl. probably a coworker or two consider him a friend, but he is dense about that kinda thing

kaz: kaz has a ton of friends the way that people who you met a few times who you're facebook/insta mutuals with are friends. not literally though bc he hates social media and basically never uses it. he's generally chill and friendly so he gets along with a lot of people. he doesn't have as many close friends. unfortunately his negative self perception is often reinforced by the fact that if he gets too deep too fast with new people they often go "oh wow ok uhh that's a lot" and fuck off, so he just doesn't get deep

[airasilver]

MALVERN, Pa. — In February, Patrice Motz, a veteran Spanish teacher at Great Valley Middle School in Malvern, Pennsylvania, was warned by another teacher that trouble was brewing.

Some eighth graders at her public school had set up TikTok accounts impersonating teachers. Motz, who had never used TikTok, created an account.

She found a fake profile for @patrice.motz, which had posted a real photo of her at the beach with her husband and their young children. “Do you like to touch kids?” a text in Spanish over the family vacation photo asked. “Answer: Sí.”

In the days that followed, some 20 educators — about one-quarter of the school’s faculty — discovered they were victims of fake teacher accounts rife with pedophilia innuendo, racist memes, homophobia and made-up sexual hookups among teachers. Hundreds of students soon viewed, followed or commented on the fraudulent accounts.

In the aftermath, the school district briefly suspended several students, teachers said. The principal during one lunch period chastised the eighth grade class for its behavior.

The biggest fallout has been for teachers like Motz, who said she felt “kicked in the stomach” that students would so casually savage teachers’ families. The online harassment has left some teachers worried that social media platforms are helping to stunt the growth of empathy in students. Some teachers are now hesitant to call out pupils who act up in class. Others said it had been challenging to keep teaching.

“It was so deflating,” said Motz, who has taught at the school, in a wealthy Philadelphia suburb, for 14 years. “I can’t believe I still get up and do this every day.”

The Great Valley incident is the first known group TikTok attack of its kind by middle schoolers on their teachers in the United States. It’s a significant escalation in how middle and high school students impersonate, troll and harass educators on social media. Before this year, students largely impersonated one teacher or principal at a time.

The middle schoolers’ attack also reflects broader concerns in schools about how students’ use, and abuse, of popular online tools is intruding on the classroom. Some states and districts have recently restricted or banned student cellphone use in schools, in part to limit peer harassment and cyberbullying on Instagram, Snap, TikTok and other apps.

Now social media has helped normalize anonymous aggressive posts and memes, leading some children to weaponize them against adults.

“We didn’t have to deal with teacher-targeting at this scale before,” said Becky Pringle, president of the National Education Association, the largest U.S. teachers union. “It’s not only demoralizing. It could push educators to question, ‘Why would I continue in this profession if students are doing this?’”

In a statement, the Great Valley School District said it had taken steps to address “22 fictitious TikTok accounts” impersonating teachers at the middle school. It described the incident as “a gross misuse of social media that profoundly impacted our staff.”

Last month, two female students at the school publicly posted an “apology” video on a TikTok account using the name of a seventh grade teacher as a handle. The pair, who did not disclose their names, described the impostor videos as a joke and said teachers had blown the situation out of proportion.

“We never meant for it to get this far, obviously,” one of the students said in the video. “I never wanted to get suspended.”

“Move on. Learn to joke,” the other student said about a teacher. “I am 13 years old,” she added, using an expletive for emphasis, “and you’re like 40 going on 50.”

In an email to The New York Times, one of the students said that the fake teacher accounts were intended as obvious jokes, but that some students had taken the impersonations too far.

A TikTok spokesperson said the platform’s guidelines prohibit misleading behavior, including accounts that pose as real people without disclosing that they are parodies or fan accounts. TikTok said a U.S.-based security team validated ID information — such as driver’s licenses — in impersonation cases and then deleted the data.

Great Valley Middle School, known locally as a close-knit community, serves about 1,100 students in a modern brick complex surrounded by a sea of bright green sports fields.

The impostor TikToks disrupted the school’s equilibrium, according to interviews with seven Great Valley teachers, four of whom requested anonymity for privacy reasons. Some teachers already used Instagram or Facebook but not TikTok.

The morning after Motz, the Spanish teacher, discovered her impersonator, the disparaging TikToks were already an open secret among students.

“There was this undercurrent conversation throughout the hallway,” said Shawn Whitelock, a longtime social studies teacher. “I noticed a group of students holding a cellphone up in front of a teacher and saying, ‘TikTok.’”

Students took images from the school’s website, copied family photos that teachers had posted in their classrooms and found others online. They made memes by cropping, cutting and pasting photos, then superimposing text.

The low-tech “cheapfake” images differ from recent incidents in schools where students used artificial intelligence apps to generate real-looking, digitally altered images known as “deepfakes.”

While some of the Great Valley teacher impostor posts seemed jokey and benign — like “Memorize your states, students!” — other posts were sexualized. One fake teacher account posted a collaged photo with the heads of two male teachers pasted onto a man and woman partially naked in bed.

Fake teacher accounts also followed and hit on other fake teachers.

“It very much became a distraction,” Bettina Scibilia, an eighth grade English teacher who has worked at the school for 19 years, said of the TikToks.

Students also targeted Whitelock, who was the faculty adviser for the school’s student council for years.

A fake @shawn.whitelock account posted a photo of Whitelock standing in a church during his wedding, with his wife mostly cropped out. The caption named a member of the school’s student council, implying the teacher had wed him instead. “I’m gonna touch you,” the impostor later commented.

“I spent 27 years building a reputation as a teacher who is dedicated to the profession of teaching,” Whitelock said in an interview. “An impersonator assassinated my character — and slandered me and my family in the process.”

Scibilia said a student had already posted a graphic death threat against her on TikTok earlier in the school year, which she reported to police. The teacher impersonations increased her concern.

“Many of my students spend hours and hours and hours on TikTok, and I think it’s just desensitized them to the fact that we’re real people,” she said. “They didn’t feel what a violation this was to create these accounts and impersonate us and mock our children and mock what we love.”

A few days after learning of the videos, Edward Souders, the principal of Great Valley Middle School, emailed the parents of eighth graders, describing the impostor accounts as portraying “our teachers in a disrespectful manner.”

The school also held an eighth grade assembly on responsible technology use.

But the school district said it had limited options to respond. Courts generally protect students’ rights to off-campus free speech, including parodying or disparaging educators online — unless the students’ posts threaten others or disrupt school.

“While we wish we could do more to hold students accountable, we are legally limited in what action we can take when students communicate off campus during nonschool hours on personal devices,” Daniel Goffredo, the district’s superintendent, said in a statement.

The district said it couldn’t comment on any disciplinary actions, to protect student privacy.

In mid-March, Nikki Salvatico, president of the Great Valley Education Association, a teachers union, warned the school board that the TikToks were disrupting the school’s “safe educational environment.”

“We need the message that this type of behavior is unacceptable,” Salvatico said at a school board meeting March 18.

The next day, Souders sent another email to parents. Some posts contained “offensive content,” he wrote, adding: “I am optimistic that by addressing it together, we can prevent it from happening again.”

While a few accounts disappeared — including those using the names of Motz, Whitelock and Scibilia — others popped up. In May, a second TikTok account impersonating Scibilia posted several new videos mocking her.

She and other Great Valley educators said they had reported the impostor accounts to TikTok, but had not heard back. But several teachers, who felt the videos had violated their privacy, said they did not provide TikTok with a personal ID to verify their identities.

On Wednesday, TikTok removed the account impersonating Scibilia and three other fake Great Valley teacher accounts flagged by a reporter.

Scibilia and other teachers are still processing the incident. Some teachers have stopped posing for and posting photographs, lest students misuse the images. Experts said this type of abuse could harm teachers’ mental health and reputations.

“That would be traumatizing to anyone,” said Susan D. McMahon, a psychology professor at DePaul University in Chicago and chair of the American Psychological Association’s Task Force on Violence Against Educators. She added that verbal student aggression against teachers was increasing.

Now teachers like Scibilia and Motz are pushing schools to educate students on how to use tech responsibly — and bolster policies to better protect teachers.

In the Great Valley students’ “apology” on TikTok last month, the two girls said they planned to post new videos. This time, they said, they would make the posts private so teachers couldn’t find them.

“We’re back, and we’ll be posting again,” one said. “And we are going to private all the videos at the beginning of next school year,” she added, “’cause then they can’t do anything.”

On Friday, after a Times reporter asked the school district to notify parents about this article, the students deleted the “apology” video and removed the teacher’s handle from their account. They also added a disclaimer: “Guys, we’re not acting as our teachers anymore that’s in the past !!”

c.2024 The New York Times Company

The whole damn school needs to be taught a lesson. Not just the ones who were caught or fessed up. The whole school. Actually the kids need to be held back and have it on their records for the rest of their lives. I’m saying this because if they are doing this now, what will they do in the future and be able to get away with? Or think they should? Give them consequences so they learn now and not later.

Technology is so helpful but it can be harmful also, as this shows.

[alittlefrenchtree]

Thankyou for your comment about that Chick a fil fan person. They don't seem to have any insight at all, to "deliberately touch him" and ask if he gets attacked? It's creepy. They're old enough to know better. But I think he wants to be seen, he could afford to get someone to pick up take away for him. It's like that cafe in Paris, from the servers account he kept talking until she asked him if he was TC and got a photo with him. So I don't know, it seems to have a purpose.

Hey Nonny! Thank you for your message.

I get where you're coming from but I feel like, even if we agree, there's more to say around your thoughts for them not to be taken in the wrong way.

I don't now how old this/these fan(s) are but even if they're not that young, they're young enough to have grew up with different codes and more importantly they're not old enough to understand every way how they grew up has an impact on their behavior. They don't understand that getting "deliberately touched" is something Tim (and every famous person in his position) must have experienced a thousand times already. That he sees right through them even if they try to act chill about it. They don't understand that they're sharing pieces of lives that don't belong to them, lives of people who have have huge needs to keep these very few pieces of their life for them because they're public people.

But how could they? They're sharing every detail of their lives online almost since the day they were born and they grew up seeing everybody around them doing the same thing, from their mom sharing pics of their food on Facebook to their high school friend who did a "what I eat in a week" video every month on youtube and became a micro-influencer doing so to their favorite singer vlogging through their promo. They grew up in a time where everybody is a famous person in the making and every famous person is a friend you can talk to with the phone in your pocket. Of course they see nothing wrong by telling everybody what Timmy's order is or when and how he was there.

That's why I'm more about opening up a conversation than saying they're disrespectful or should know better, even if I'm not sure any of them is on tumblr but maybe somehow the topic will end up on instagram or tiktok or whatever.

About Timmy. I haven't done this in a while but let's talk. And first let's remember two things about him: a) 99% of people who met him have perceived him as a nice person, b) he has anxiety about what people will think of him every time he knows the interaction he's having at the moment has a chance to be a worldwide news in the following 24hrs. So him chatting with random people he's ordering food from could very much be a) him being nice because he's nice or b) him being nice because he doesn't want the world to think he's an ass (which could also be being nice in some people's book but you know, i love nuances) or a mix of the two at the same time. And not necessarily be about him wanting to be seen.

On that same thought and the whole he can go unnoticed when he wants to/he could have someone do it for him. To start with the latest, of course he could but why would he? If he's hungry and he's driving past a drive-in (lol) why wouldn't he do it himself? To not interact with 3 people who might recognize him and be happy to see him? What a way to become completely disconnected from the real world and end up like these not so enviable rich people who are unable to survive a day without the help of two PAs.

I do also think "he can go unnoticed if he wants to" doesn't mean the same thing in 2023 that it did in 2018. I do believe that he didn't only buy a 12 millions dollars house because he could make Apple pay for it but because it's an easy way for him to be safe when he's home. Which might not have been possible in a regular house or building. I do believe that going unnoticed for him now mostly mean either staying home or only go to private places (like someone else's house) or some of these exclusive places where you only fine rich people and have every chance to make you become an ass. And even if you can live with that, I bet sometimes he just wants to take a bite on a good old fast food and live the same life as us peasants. Does it qualify as "he wants to be seen"? Not sure. For me it's more like a "he wants that thing and he doesn't care if he's seen in the process."

Sorry, that's probably way more than anything you were asking for. I hope you don't mind me sharing some (long) ideas around your own thoughts but since you stopped by my inbox, I guess you don't 😅😘

[bookdistribution]

A Complete Guide to the Top 10 Book Distributors Transforming India’s Reading Culture

India has always been a land of rich literary traditions, and its vibrant book market is a testament to this heritage.

From educational books to general fiction, book distributors play a crucial role in bridging the gap between publishers and readers.

In this guide, we’ll delve into the book distributors in India who are reshaping the country’s reading culture.

1. India Book House

India Book House is a name synonymous with trust and quality in the book distribution industry.

Established decades ago, it specializes in children’s literature, coffee table books, and educational materials.

Their extensive network ensures that books reach readers in even the remotest corners of the country.

Key Highlights:

Focus on children’s books and art publications.

Strong presence in both urban and rural areas.

2. Amar Chitra Katha Pvt. Ltd.

Known for its legendary comic series, Amar Chitra Katha Pvt. Ltd. is more than just a publisher—it’s a trusted book distributor in India.

It caters to schools, libraries, and retail outlets, ensuring its iconic storytelling reaches young readers across generations.

Key Highlights:

Focus on Indian mythology and history.

Distribution across schools and bookstores nationwide.

3. S. Chand Group

A household name in educational publishing, S. Chand Group has carved a niche for itself in book distribution as well.

Catering primarily to academic institutions, the group’s distribution network spans the length and breadth of India.

Key Highlights:

Comprehensive range of educational books for K-12 and higher education.

Partnerships with schools and universities.

4. Prakash Books

Prakash Books is a major player in India’s book distribution sector, known for its wide selection of titles from international and domestic publishers.

Whether it’s fiction, self-help, or children’s books, Indian Book Distributors Prakash Books offers something for everyone.

Key Highlights:

Exclusive distributor for several international publishers.

Focus on quality and timely delivery.

5. Navneet Education Limited

Navneet Education Limited is renowned for its educational materials, reference books, and children’s literature.

As one of the leading book distributors in India, it has a robust network that caters to schools, libraries, and bookstores.

Key Highlights:

Strong emphasis on curriculum-based books.

Wide reach across India and select international markets.

6. Atlantic Publishers and Distributors

Atlantic Publishers and Distributors specialize in academic and professional books.

Their extensive catalog includes titles on management, technology, social sciences, and more. This distributor is a go-to choice for scholars and professionals alike.

Key Highlights:

Focus on academic and research-oriented books.

Partnerships with leading global publishers.

7. Pustak Mahal

Pustak Mahal is a pioneer in the mass-market publishing and distribution space.

Known for its affordable books on a variety of topics, it has become a favorite among readers who seek quality content at reasonable prices.

Key Highlights:

Diverse catalog ranging from fiction to self-help.

Strong presence in local bookstores and online platforms.

8. CBH Publications

CBH Publications is a leading distributor of books in southern India. With a focus on academic, Indian Book Distributors  religious, and general books, it has built a loyal customer base over the years.

Key Highlights:

Specialized in regional language books.

Strong presence in Kerala and neighboring states.

9. UBS Publishers’ Distributors Pvt. Ltd.

UBS Publishers’ Distributors is one of the most trusted names in the industry. It offers a vast selection of books, including academic, fiction, and non-fiction titles, to cater to diverse reader needs.

Key Highlights:

Global partnerships with international publishers.

Extensive distribution network across India.

10. Jaico Publishing House

Jaico Publishing House started as India’s first paperback publisher and has evolved into a prominent book distributor. It specializes in self-help, spirituality, and business books, with a focus on inspiring readers.

Key Highlights:

Pioneer in paperback distribution in India.

Focus on motivational and self-improvement genres.

How These Distributors Are Transforming India’s Reading Culture

The book distributors in India listed above are not just middlemen; they are cultural ambassadors.

By making books accessible to every corner of the country, they are nurturing a love for reading among people of all ages. Their efforts ensure that:

Books Reach Underserved Regions: Distributors are expanding their networks to include rural and semi-urban areas, bringing literature to new audiences.

Promoting Diverse Genres: From academic books to regional language literature, these distributors cater to a wide variety of reader interests.

Enhancing Digital Access: Many distributors are leveraging e-commerce platforms and digital tools to make books more accessible online.

Conclusion

The role of book distributors in India is indispensable in shaping the nation’s reading culture.

By providing access to a plethora of titles and genres, they ensure that the joy of reading reaches every home.

Whether you’re a student, a professional, or a casual reader, these distributors are your gateway to a world of knowledge and imagination.

[stefwithanf90]

Have You Ever Done These Things?

Elaborate if you like :)

A and B Edition

Absailed?

Acted in a play?

Lied about your age?

Skipped ahead in a queue?

Visited at least 5 American states?

Made amends with someone you fell out with?

Anchored a ship?

Made applesauce?

Tried aqua aerobics?

Took part in. An art class outside school?

Been Armed in public?

Wrote an online article?

Asked for someone’s number you don’t know personally?

Attended a rave?

Attended a festival?

Attended seminar?

Drove an automatic car?

Made a big faux pas because of autocorrect?

Avoided someone you knew out and about as you didn’t want to talk to them?

Won an award or trophy?

Backpacked across a region or country?

Made a bad decision due to the influence of alcohol or drugs?

Bought a new bag to then realise you no longer liked it?

Got hit in the face really hard by a ball?

Made animal balloons?

Done ballet?

Been banned from an online page or forum?

Been part of a band?

Attended more than one bands concert or gig in the same week?

Been down to a basement or up in an attic alone?

Ate the batter of a cake mx?

Been up all night and not gone to bed?

Belonged to an exclusive group?

Bet money on an outcome and win?

Bet money on an outcome and lost?

Read all the Bible?

Bid on an item in an auction?

Bought an item of clothing way too big for you by accident?

Binned a present someone bought you that you didn’t like?

Made your own homemade birthday card?

Planned a surprise birthday party for someone?

Had a surprise birthday someone planned for you?

Blamed someone else for a serious mistake you made?

Blared music really loud at a very late hour?

Blocked someone on social media?

Been blocked on social media? Watched a Bollywood movie?

Had your own online blog?

Watched a Bond movie?

Been rude to a boss or teacher?

Been towelling?

Hid in a box?

Had a favourite boy band you were obsessed with?

Bragged about an achievement you had?

Made bread from scratch?

Bribed someone to keep quiet?

Called someone your brother who isn’t actually your brother?

Ate a bug?

Been stung by a bumblebee or wasp?

Been burnt bad enough you needed treatment?

Been on a night bus servic

[nurseeden]

Leading 10 Colleges for Nursing: Your Guide to the very best Nursing Programs in 2024

Top 10 ⁤Colleges for Nursing: Your Guide to the Best Nursing Programs in‌ 2024

Top 10⁣ Colleges for Nursing: Your⁢ Guide to the Best Nursing Programs in 2024

As the demand for skilled​ healthcare professionals continues to rise, pursuing a nursing degree ​has never⁣ been more promising. With numerous colleges offering nursing programs, ⁤how can prospective students ⁢determine which institutions stand out? In ⁢this ‍article, we’ll delve into the top 10 colleges for nursing in 2024, providing⁣ an ​overview of their programs, strengths, and‌ what students can ‍expect. Let’s get started!

Why​ Choose a Career in Nursing?

Nursing offers a fulfilling career⁤ path with abundant job ‌opportunities. Here are⁣ some benefits ⁣of choosing nursing as your profession:

High Demand: The ‍healthcare industry ​is ​experiencing a shortage of qualified‍ nurses.

Job Stability: Nursing roles are often considered recession-proof.

Diverse Opportunities: Nurses can specialize in various fields, from pediatrics to⁢ geriatrics.

Impactful Work: Nurses play ⁣a crucial⁤ role in ‌patient care, making a difference‍ in lives.

Top 10 Colleges for Nursing in 2024

Below, we’ve compiled a list of the top 10 ⁤nursing colleges based on factors such as academic reputation, clinical opportunities, faculty quality, and student satisfaction.

Rank

College

Location

Notable Programs

1

Johns Hopkins University

Baltimore, MD

BSN, MSN, DNP

2

University of ⁢Pennsylvania

Philadelphia, PA

BSN,​ MSN, PhD

3

Duke University

Durham, NC

BSN, MSN, DNP

4

University ⁣of California, San Francisco

San‍ Francisco, CA

BSN, MSN, PhD

5

University of Michigan

Ann Arbor, ⁤MI

BSN,​ MSN,‍ DNP

6

Emory⁤ University

Atlanta, GA

BSN, MSN, DNP

7

Columbia University

New York, NY

BSN, MSN, DNP

8

University of⁢ North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Chapel Hill, NC

BSN, MSN, PhD

9

New York ⁤University

New York, NY

BSN, MSN, ⁢DNP

10

Purdue University

West Lafayette, IN

BSN, MSN,‌ DNP

Details of the Top Colleges

1. Johns Hopkins University

Ranked as ⁣one of ⁣the best ⁣nursing schools, ‍Johns Hopkins‍ offers nationally recognized nursing programs. ​The School of Nursing focuses on research, innovation, and critical thinking.

2. University ‍of Pennsylvania

Penn’s nursing programs are⁢ well-respected, with a ⁣strong emphasis on ⁢practice-based learning. The accelerated BSN ​program is particularly noteworthy.

3. Duke University

Duke provides students with hands-on training through its simulation lab and extensive ⁣clinical partnerships in the community. The MSN and DNP ‍programs are highly‍ rated.

4. University of California, San Francisco

UCSF is dedicated to public health and nursing education, emphasizing evidence-based practice. The online MSN program is a flexible option for working professionals.

5.‌ University of Michigan

UM integrates ⁣nursing with health services and public health knowledge. Its BSN program‌ is rigorous, preparing ‌students for a variety of ​healthcare settings.

6. Emory University

Emory’s‍ nursing school stands out⁣ for its ⁤commitment ‍to nursing ethics and leadership. The program features multiple pathways, including an RN to BSN ⁤track.

7. Columbia University

Columbia offers ⁤an innovative curriculum and ‌international ⁤opportunities, particularly for students seeking​ to work in diverse environments.

8. University⁣ of North Carolina​ at Chapel Hill

As a public⁣ university, UNC ‌provides various nursing ‍specializations and boasts strong community partnerships ⁤that enhance ​experiential learning.

9. New York University

NYU is known for its focus on urban health and cultural⁤ competency. Its extensive‌ alumni ⁢network offers valuable support ⁣to students.

10. Purdue‌ University

Purdue offers a budget-friendly ⁤option with strong outcomes in NCLEX pass rates. The nursing school emphasizes technology in healthcare.

Practical Tips for Choosing‍ a Nursing School

Accreditation: Ensure the ⁢program is accredited by‍ a recognized ⁢body.

Program Type: ⁣Consider whether you want ⁤a BSN,‌ MSN, DNP, or accelerated program.

Location: ⁢ Think about the geographical‍ area and its clinical placement opportunities.

Cost: ⁢ Evaluate tuition and fees alongside ‍potential ⁣financial aid options.

Case Studies and First-Hand ‌Experiences

Students often share transformative experiences during their nursing education. For instance, Emily, a recent graduate of the University of Michigan, leveraged ​hands-on clinical training to enhance her skills. She noted, “My program challenged ⁢me ⁢to think ​critically and prepared me for real-world situations.”‌ Gifts⁤ like mentorship and networking are ⁤invaluable, ⁣as stated by⁢ James, who graduated from Duke: “Being ‍part of a‍ thriving alumni community ⁤opened doors for internships and job placements.”

Conclusion

The decision to pursue a nursing degree is a vital step in your professional journey. The top⁢ 10 colleges for nursing in 2024 ‌ offer nationally​ recognized programs that​ prepare students for success. By investing time into researching these ‌institutions, ⁣you can find the best fit for your career aspirations. Remember, your education will shape ‌not only your future but⁤ also⁣ the future of⁣ healthcare.‌ Happy exploring!

https://nursingcertificationcourses.com/leading-10-colleges-for-nursing-your-guide-to-the-very-best-nursing-programs-in-2024/

[palcs]

Empowering K-12 Students at PALCS: A Leading PA Cyber Charter School

The Pennsylvania Leadership Charter School is a top-rated PA cyber charter school dedicated to providing flexible, high-quality online education for K-12 students. With certified teachers, engaging curriculum, and personalized learning plans, we empower students to succeed academically and beyond. Whether pursuing advanced courses, extracurriculars, or specialized programs, students benefit from a supportive and innovative virtual learning environment. Visit us to explore how this leading cyber charter school helps students achieve their goals.

[appliancesonrent]

Rent a Speaker in Pune

 Are you planning a special event and home use to get a speaker on rent? We provide a high-quality sound system for all your needs. Whether you are having a birthday party, corporate event or school gathering great sound can make a good atmosphere. Let's explore why renting sounds in Pune. In Pune, the Ganpati festival is big and some groups get sound on rent. In Pune, the Ganpati festival is a big function every group gets a sound on rent and we provide festival sound and DJ speakers. You visit our online store and check its price and rental things like rent and penalty. We always offer good quality products. Our speakers are cost-effective and best perform in any condition.

 Renting a speaker is a good choice because not everyone's affordable sound cost is too high. When you get a speaker on rent you get love and music. Rent on a speaker is the best choice for your small-time work not permanent. 

Why Choose Us for Speaker Rental in Pune?

At Appliances on Rent, we offer a wide range of speakers to suit all kinds of events and venues in Pune. With flexible rental plans, you can rent on our sound on a daily weekly or monthly basis. We also provide home and location delivery as well as all speaker setups.

When you rent a speaker from our store we provide our technical assistant. Our speakers are from top brands, ensuring you get only the best in sound quality.

Exceptional sound Quality: We provide top brands so that you will get the best quality audio and reliability. Bluetooth speaker on rent in Pune and Pimpri Chinchwad.

Premium quality: Our speakers are top sound quality and good for your event and functions. We also guarantee exceptional sound and durability.

Cost-effective: Our products are cost-effective and long-lasting when you rent out any product we provide full customer support. 

Easy Setup and Support: We provide easy setup and easy-to-use for day-to-day. Most rental companies offer support with setup and technical assistance, ensuring you have a hassle-free experience. You can focus on enjoying your event while the experts handle the sound system.

Latest Technology available: We provide the latest speakers for our customers. We always update our products and accessories.

Types of Speakers We Provide 

Portable Speaker: We provide the perfect speaker for your small and big events, we are an idea for perfect sound capacity.

Bluetooth speaker; Small home Bluetooth speaker 

DJ speaker: DJ for your small parties as well as big parties all types of DJs are available.

PA speaker: Ideal for large venus providing powerful sound amplification. The PA system is perfect for seminars, public speaking and conference rooms. 

Sound system: Enhance your bass response. For large venues or events that need powerful sound projection.

Festival speaker: In Pune big festival is Ganpati, Dahi Handi festival so we provide quilty speakers.

Contact us Today: To rent a speaker in Pune for any event please contact us at +917666816882 for more information. Anytime you call our staff will be happy to assist you in selecting the perfect speaker system for your needs.

[articlesub410]

Medical Weight Loss Services in Sacramento CA

Medical Weight Loss Services in Sacramento CA

WELCOME TO

ELITE BEAUTY AND WELLNESS PHYSICIAN ASSISTANT CORPORATION

Where compassionate care meets proven expertise in medical weight loss. With over 40 combined years of dedicated practice in medicine, we are thrilled to help individuals achieve their wellness goals

To empower you to reclaim control of your health and transform your life for the better. Through comprehensive assessments, personalized treatment plans, and ongoing support, we strive to make your journey to a healthier weight not only achievable but also fulfilling and sustainable.

Meet Our Providers:

Arezou Mansourian PA-C, MSPAS, MPH

As a Physician Assistant with a Master’s in Public Health (MPH), I bring a comprehensive understanding of both clinical medicine and public health principles to my practice. This unique combination allows me to address weight management not only at the individual level but also through a broader lens of community health promotion and disease prevention. As someone who has struggled personally with their weight for over 20 years, I have tried most fad diets without sustainable success. It was only through the incorporation of GLP-1 agonist medication into my weight loss program that I was finally able to discover freedom from the food noise that had been sabotaging my efforts my entire adult life.

Experiencing firsthand the transformative effects of GLP-1 medication on my own weight loss journey has been profound. It’s not just about the numbers on the scale; it’s about reclaiming confidence, vitality, and a sense of well-being. Now, armed with empathy and a deep understanding of the challenges individuals face in their quest for better health, I’m inspired to pay it forward. By offering compassionate support and evidence-based strategies, I’m committed to guiding others toward their own success stories, empowering them to achieve lasting, healthy change.

I am proud to hold a specialized certification in medical weight loss, a testament to my dedication to staying at the forefront of advancements in this vital area of healthcare. My approach to weight management is rooted in evidence-based practices, personalized to each individual’s unique needs and circumstances. Whether you’re seeking to shed excess pounds, manage chronic medical conditions, or enhance overall well-being, including physical and mental health, I am here to guide you with empathy, clinical expertise, and unwavering support.

Hieu Ball MD, MPH

Hieu T. Ball, M.D., is a double fellowship-trained orthopedic spine surgeon who completed his Orthopedic Surgery Residency at Harvard Medical School.

In addition to surgical expertise, Dr. Ball holds a Master’s degree in Public Health (MPH) from Tuft’s University, emphasizing population health management and disease prevention strategies. This comprehensive training enables Dr. Ball to approach healthcare from a broader perspective, focusing not only on individual patient outcomes but also on community health initiatives.

He is a distinguished spine surgeon with a passion for enhancing lives through surgical excellence and holistic healthcare solutions. Dr. Ball brings a unique blend of expertise in spine surgery and public health, coupled with a commitment to promoting overall well-being through medical weight loss strategies.

Motivated by a dedication to tackle obesity and its related health risks, Dr. Ball also holds certification in medical weight loss.

This practice integrates evidence-based medical treatments with personalized nutritional counseling and lifestyle modifications. Dr. Ball and the team are dedicated to helping patients achieve sustainable weight loss goals, leading to improved health and vitality.

[melbournesounds]

Where Can You Find the Best PA Systems

Public Address (PA) systems are the unsung heroes of clear communication. From amplifying a busker's soulful melody to ensuring everyone hears the coach's instructions at training, PA systems project sound across distances. But with a vast array of options available in Australia, finding the "best" PA systems can feel like navigating a sonic labyrinth. Fear not, cobber! This comprehensive guide will equip you with the knowledge to find the perfect PA systems for your needs.

Where to Find PA Systems in Australia

First things first: where can you get your hands on a top-notch PA system? Here are some reliable options:

Pro Audio Retailers: Specialist pro audio stores like Melbourne Sound Melbourne Sound boast a curated selection of PA systems alongside expert advice. Their staff can answer your questions and guide you towards the ideal system for your application.

Music Stores: Many music stores stock portable PA systems suitable for smaller gigs or busking.

Online Retailers: While convenient, online retailers can be a double-edged sword. Read reviews carefully and ensure the return policy is clear before committing.

Choosing the Right PA System: Factors to Consider

Now that you know where to look, let's delve into the nitty-gritty of choosing the perfect PA system. Here are the key factors to consider:

Portability vs. Permanence: Do you need a system you can easily transport from gig to gig, or is it for a fixed location like a school hall? Portable PA systems are typically smaller, battery-powered, and often come with built-in mixers. Permanent systems offer more power and flexibility but require installation.

Power Output: This refers to the system's wattage and determines how loud it can get. For small gatherings in intimate spaces, a lower wattage system (think 50-100 watts) might suffice. However, larger venues or outdoor events necessitate a system with a higher wattage (300 watts and above) to ensure proper sound coverage.

Number of Channels: Channels allow you to connect multiple microphones, instruments, or music sources. A simple system might have just a single channel, while larger, more complex setups could have upwards of 12 channels. Consider how many inputs you'll need to connect your desired equipment.

Speakers: The type and size of speakers significantly impact sound quality and throw (the distance the sound travels). Full-range speakers are versatile but might lack the bass punch for music-heavy applications. PA systems with separate subwoofers offer a richer sound experience.

Features: Modern PA systems often come with additional features like Bluetooth connectivity for streaming music, built-in EQ (equalization) to adjust the sound, and echo cancellation for improved clarity.

Applications for PA systems: 

Here are some common uses for PA systems in Australia:

Musicians and Buskers: Portable PA systems are a lifesaver for musicians performing outdoors or in smaller venues.

Public Speaking: PA systems amplify voices during presentations, conferences, or even political rallies.

Sporting Events: Coaches use PA systems to communicate with players and officials during games.

Schools and Educational Institutions: Announcements, assemblies, and even school plays can benefit from clear and powerful sound projection.

Houses of Worship: PA systems ensure the entire congregation can hear sermons and participate in hymns.

Auctions and Events: PA systems help project voices and background music clearly at auctions, trade shows, and other events.

Top PA System Brands in Australia

Here are some reputable brands to consider when searching for PA systems in Australia:

Yamaha: Renowned for their high-quality and user-friendly portable PA systems like the STAGEPAS series.

JBL: Offers a range of portable PA systems known for their durability and powerful sound.

Bose: Popular for their compact and feature-rich S1 Pro system, ideal for smaller gigs and presentations.

Behringer: Provides budget-friendly options with a good balance of features and affordability.

Electro-Voice: Caters to the professional market with high-performance PA systems for larger events.

Melbourne Sound : Melbourne Sound Systems is a premier provider of audio solutions in Australia, offering a wide range of PA systems to suit various needs.

Additional Tips for Choosing a PA Systems

Set a Budget: PA systems span a wide price range. Determine your budget beforehand to narrow down your options.

Read Reviews: Online reviews from previous buyers can offer valuable insights and highlight potential drawbacks.

Consider Future Needs: If you anticipate expanding your use of the PA system, choose a system with room for growth in terms of power or features.

Don't be Afraid to Ask for Help: Pro audio store staff are there to assist you. Explain your needs

[better-philadelphia-pa]

The Carson Luxury Apartments in Philadelphia, PA         

Are you searching for the best two bedroom apartments in Northern Liberties area? There’s no doubt young families prefer such type of living space. If you’re looking for an exciting apartment home, you can check out the website of The Carson Luxury Apartments. As such, you can find the best selections. In addition, the apartment is also pet-friendly. Well, your cats and dogs are welcome at The Carson. Let your pup burn off some energy and make friends in our spacious rooftop dog park, while you enjoy the fresh air, greenery, and views. Later, take your dog for a walk to nearby Liberty Lands Park or check out the latest pet supplies and treats at Doggie Style Pets or Unleashed by Petco. Don’t forget to familiarize their pet policy, by the way.

Philadelphia, PA

Essentially, many people are aware that Philadelphia, PA area is one of the renowned places in the world for years. Moreover, many parents rely on the quality of education the schools there have been providing for years. Then, education in Philadelphia is provided by many private and public institutions. As mentioned in online articles, the School District of Philadelphia is the local school district, operating public schools, in all of the city. In addition, the Philadelphia School District is the eighth-largest school district in the nation with 142,266 students in 218 traditional public schools and 86 charter schools as of 2014.

Philadelphia Museum of Art in Philadelphia, PA

These days, the Philadelphia Museum of Art in Philadelphia, PA has been attracting many visitors. Even before the pandemic, the Philadelphia Museum of Art or PMoA is already popular. Basically, it is an art museum originally chartered in 1876 for the Centennial Exposition in Philadelphia. Because of its remarkable displays, many parents bring their children there. Moreover, the main museum building was completed in 1928 on Fairmount, a hill located at the northwest end of the Benjamin Franklin Parkway at Eakins Oval. Then, the museum administers collections containing over 240,000 objects including major holdings of European, American and Asian origin.

Meet the Pennsylvania dad who battled addiction to save his relationship with his son

One of the inspiring reports this year in Philadelphia, PA is about a father. Based on the news, Noah Langnas and his son Aaron encourage each other when they're out hitting golf balls. Noah Langnas shared that, "It's the most important relationship in my life.” But that relationship was jeopardized when the father said he got lost in addiction. He admitted, "I was a sales manager for a Fortune 500 company, and my second back surgery didn't go as planned. I took two pills and six years later basically woke up in rehab." Through the haze of addiction, he knew he needed to get clean to save his relationship with his son.

Link to Map Driving Direction

Philadelphia Museum of Art 2600 Benjamin Franklin Pkwy, Philadelphia, PA 19130, United States

Head southwest on Anne d'Harnoncourt Dr/Art Museum Dr 53 sec (0.2 mi)

Take N 24th St and I-676 E to N 5th St 8 min (2.5 mi)

The Carson Luxury Apartments 570 N 5th St, Philadelphia, PA 19123, United States